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Best way to cut a hole for outlet in kitchen cabinet?

Discussion in 'Garage / Workshop' started by iJDub, Aug 8, 2019.

  1. Aug 8, 2019 at 5:40 PM
    #1
    iJDub

    iJDub [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I want to install an outlet (already wired) in a kitchen cabinet. What's the best way to get a nice clean cut? TIA
     
  2. Aug 8, 2019 at 5:41 PM
    #2
    GHOST SHIP

    GHOST SHIP hates you.

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    Drill a pilot hole and use a jigsaw.
     
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  3. Aug 8, 2019 at 5:43 PM
    #3
    Clearwater Bill

    Clearwater Bill Sometimes when I close my eyes, I can't see.

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    Just for clarity before folks answer, do you have a picture of what you want to use?

    Most in cabinet outlets are surface mounted, like for disposals, dishwashers, microwaves, etc.

    Or are you making a convenience outlet on the outside of the cabinet, flush, like a wall unit would be?

    A Rotozip (spiral saw) can be used nicely free hand if you are steady.
     
    wilcam47 likes this.
  4. Aug 8, 2019 at 5:44 PM
    #4
    THE_KiRRAx

    THE_KiRRAx Well-Known Member

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    Use one of those oscillating tools if you have access to one, that thing is the single greatest tool purchase I've ever made for home diy shit.
     
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  5. Aug 8, 2019 at 5:44 PM
    #5
    2016Tacoman

    2016Tacoman Well-Known Member

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    Porter Cable Variable Speed Oscillating Multi-Tool has worked well for me in situations as such I think you are describing.
    You want to cut out a rectangular hole to accept an outlet box ?
     
  6. Aug 8, 2019 at 7:07 PM
    #6
    Oregon Mike

    Oregon Mike Well-Known Member

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  7. Aug 8, 2019 at 7:16 PM
    #7
    mcm808

    mcm808 Well-Known Member

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  8. Aug 8, 2019 at 9:20 PM
    #8
    iJDub

    iJDub [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Mind Blown! Kinda price to make 1 cut...but may be worth it for me to not f it up.

    I have the tool, just need to buy the $45 QBit tool.
     
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  9. Aug 8, 2019 at 9:25 PM
    #9
    iJDub

    iJDub [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Nevermind, read the reviews, great on dry wall, not good on wood...here's the review:

    "This sure seemed like a great idea. Enough so that I spent WAY too much money on it. And it's very disappointing. The thing has large, floppy cutter edges and they vibrate enough to throw your cutting off by a LOT. The hole ends up being FAR larger than you intend. Definitely would not recommend.

    Ok, let me be fair. After thinking about it, I didn't use this thing to cut drywall. Perhaps if you are able to push it up tight against a softer surface like sheetrock, the ears won't flap wildly and cut a huge hole. Other reviewers seem to feel it does ok on sheetrock. But DO NOT use it on paneling. I was trying to cut outlet holes in a kitchen island and it nearly ruined my cabinets."
     
    Oregon Mike likes this.
  10. Aug 8, 2019 at 11:56 PM
    #10
    TK-422

    TK-422 Toyota! Oh what a feeling.

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    If you are someone who does not use tools a lot the orbital tools on a hard surface can be tricky at first.

    To add to @GHOST SHIP I would use a jigsaw and some extra wood blades. Cover the area with blue painters tape so you don't scratch the surface and mark out your rectangle.

    Drill a hole in two opposing corners so you can make 4 strait cuts.
     
    GHOST SHIP likes this.
  11. Aug 9, 2019 at 12:18 AM
    #11
    bagleboy

    bagleboy Well-Known Member

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    4 pilot holes with a brad point bit(spin it in reverse to cut the grain) connect the holes with a multi-tool. A jigsaw is more likely to pull the grain.
     

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